Olivia Moultrie Shines in Women’s Soccer
Olivia Moultrie is really making a splash in the women’s soccer scene and it’s apparent why. She recently secured a three-year contract extension with the Portland Thorns, keeping her with the team until 2029.
As she embarks on her fifth professional season, things seem to be falling into place for the 20-year-old midfielder, both for her club and the national team. Moultrie has masterfully transformed her scoring skills, effortlessly nailing free kicks and executing tricky passes.
So, what’s her latest highlight? On October 19, she netted two crucial goals against Angel City at BMO Stadium, leading the Thorns to a 2-0 win and ensuring a postseason spot for 2025 with one game left to play. One of those goals was a stunning shot from outside the box, but what drew extra attention was her successful penalty.
Why’s that? Because the regular penalty-taker is the team captain, Sam Coffey. “She just looked up and gave me a thumbs up,” Moultrie shared. “I truly appreciate her trust in me.”
This game marked Moultrie’s second brace within just three matches, with her other scoring feat occurring earlier against Bay FC on October 4 in a 2-1 victory.
Reflecting on the season, Moultrie mentioned, “I think a lot of people have dismissed us this year. There’s definitely been a boost of enthusiasm from not just me, but the entire team. My years in Portland have been filled with people pushing me and letting me grow into the player I wanted to be.”
It’s been two years since the Thorns last celebrated a trophy. They added a third star after clinching the 2022 NWSL title with a 2-0 win against Kansas City Current, a match that featured legends like Christine Sinclair and Crystal Dunn. At that time, Moultrie was just 17, surrounded by icons, patiently waiting for her moment.
Since that championship, the Thorns have gone through two head coaches, witnessed many veterans leave the team, and faced struggles with postseason appearances. Yet, Moultrie remained patient.
Describing the waiting period, Moultrie called it “frustrating.” Instead of succumbing to that frustration, she channeled it into improving every element of her game. While waiting for her opportunities, she focused on enhancing her free-kick skills.
“Watching Messi excel made me want to incorporate his techniques into my game,” Moultrie noted. “If you aim to be the best, learn from the best. I believe Messi is one of the greatest free-kick specialists in the world.”
Thorns assistant coach Vitas Andrewszkevicius often worked with her after regular training, watching her practice free kick after free kick until it was time for her to leave the field.
That dedicated practice is clearly paying off. On September 14, Moultrie scored from a free kick in a draw against the Chicago Stars, making her the top teenage scorer in NWSL history.
Her hard work has not only shone through in her performance—she ended the season as the Thorns’ leading scorer with eight goals—but it also won her recognition from the fans. After the last match of the season against Houston Dash, Moultrie was awarded the Rose City Riveters Supporters Player of the Year, an honor bestowed on only a few Thorns players.
The Riveters praised her, stating, “Moultrie’s commitment to the club, growth, and fearless play embody the core of Portland’s soccer culture—a dedication to excellence, teamwork, and a genuine love for the game.” They added that it’s been remarkable to witness her development, as she showcases exceptional game vision and technical skills alongside her competitive spirit.
Nearly a decade ago, when she was just 11, former University of North Carolina women’s soccer coach Anson Dorrance described Moultrie as “a bit of a technical and tactical wizard,” emphasizing her potential. Yet, her style is distinctly her own—a culmination of her deep love for soccer since childhood. She not only scores well but is crucial for propelling the team forward and making precise passes, all while drawing fouls and creating opportunities.
Moultrie’s determination and resilience have positioned her not just for a starting role in Portland come 2025 but have also caught the eye of USWNT head coach Emma Hayes.
Hayes remarked, “She’s having an impressive season. She knew how to take advantage of openings in the box.”
Her recent international performances have illustrated exactly that. In a matchup against Portugal in October, she scored two quick goals, one being merely 45 seconds into the game.
Throughout her young career, Moultrie has pursued her dreams with unwavering enthusiasm. Her persistence has paved the way for not only herself but also for other aspiring players looking to join the NWSL.
Now that she has established her presence in the league, she’s geared up to make an impact on the international scene with the upcoming Olympics and World Cups on the horizon.
“If people think your dreams are wild, show them what those dreams can achieve,” Moultrie wisely said.
